European Escapade | Standard | Start London | Summer 2025
European Escapade | Standard | Start London | Summer 2025
Tour Overview
Wanna go all in on Europe’s major cities? We’re talking Amsterdam, Paris, Berlin, Prague, Venice, Rome… and even Barcelona! On this extraordinary escapade, you’ll make the most of one iconic continent, with stop-offs at the Swiss Alps and exclusive Special Stays in Hopfgarten and at Contiki's Chateau de Cruix.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: London To Paris
Location: London, Dover, Calais, Paris
Accommodation: Ibis Budget Paris Nord 18e (or similar)
Accommodation Name: A conveniently located hostel
Meals Included: Dinner
Welcome to the first day of the best trip of your life - we're calling it early! After a few pleasantries in London we'll get the show on the road with Paris in our sights. A few hours in and your jaws are on the floor already. These chalk cliffs that edge the English coastline are known as the White Cliffs of Dover, the first of many natural beauties we'll see on our trip. After we ferry across the English Channel for France we'll arrive in Calais, where we will take in the history of World War I battlefields in the Valley of the Somme. We'll kick off our trip as we arrive in the glittering city of love, Paris. It's straight down to business with a tour of the city lit up by those famous lights. Then, we'll bond with our Contiki fam with a delicious included dinner. The French are proud of their culinary culture for a reason.
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Day 2: Paris
Location: Paris
Accommodation: Ibis Budget Paris Nord 18e (or similar)
Accommodation Name: A conveniently located hostel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today's the day to stroll the beautiful streets of Paris, with plenty of time to lust over designer haute couture or French vintage stores, admire the Notre Dame Cathedral, order coffee and crêpes, or get artsy at the many museums of the Louvre. Tonight, foodies will have the chance to eat a Parisian feast in Montmartre, surrounded by cobbled lanes, village-esque cafes, street artists and the Sacré-Cœur Basilica. Otherwise, this is your night to sign up for an iconic Parisian cabaret show. Either option will give you the perfect way to make it one to remember!
Day 3: Paris To Swiss Alps
Location: Paris, Swiss Alps
Accommodation: Schützenbach (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Schützenbach (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Out with the city life, in with the fresh mountain air. On leaving Paris we’ll coast through the pretty wine producing region of Burgundy before crossing the border to Switzerland. With magical views unfolding outside our windows we'll find ourselves in Switzerland, ready for two nights at our accommodation in the heart of this traditional resort town. This place comes to life as the sun sets, so tonight we'll have a chance to load up on Swiss chocolate, and walk around town admiring the stunning landscape.
Day 4: Swiss Alps
Location: Swiss Alps
Accommodation: Schützenbach (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Schützenbach (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Open the window of your room and drink in the incredible view. Today you’re free to explore this classic European adventure town. Feeling extra adventurous? Today is your chance to ascend Jungfrau mountain, aka ‘the Top of the World’.
Day 5: Swiss Alps To Beaujolais Wine Region Via Geneva
Location: Swiss Alps, Geneva, Beaujolais Wine Region
Accommodation: Château de Cruix (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Château de Cruix (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
It’s been sweet, but we’re swapping Switzerland back for France again this morning. But first, there's just time for one last breath of fresh mountain air. A quick lunch break in the home of the UN's headquarters and a view of that oh so famous water fountain. Grab a bite to eat and a last mouthful of delish swiss chocolate (try saying that three times fast) and then we'll be on our way. Rolling into the Beaujolais region of France amidst vineyards, we'll arrive at Contiki’s very own 16th century château. This might just be our most decadent accommodation yet, complete with newly-renovated bedrooms & bathrooms, an on-site nightclub, artwork in every room, a games room, and a powder room for makeup and hair. And we haven't even shown you the pool or the gardens yet! Tonight we'll start off with an included dinner and wine tasting here at the château, because, when in France... Please note: On occasion, certain departures will be moved from Contiki’s Château de Cruix to the French gastronomic capital of Lyon (a title which ain’t given lightly, believe us!) We’ll get the party started with an included meal at a local restaurant, accompanied by local wine.
Day 6: Beaujolais Wine Region To Barcelona
Location: Beaujolais Wine Region, Barcelona
Accommodation: Generator Barcelona (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Generator Barcelona (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Bye-bye Beaujolais! And hello Barcelona. The Pyrénées mountains will keep our eyes satisfied today as we roll across the border for Spain's most lively city. Each day as sweet as the last. Well would you look at that for timing, we've pulled into Barcelona just on sangria o'clock. Fate, you've done it again! Tapas and a night exploring the city should have us in the Spanish mood before we know it.
Day 7: Barcelona
Location: Barcelona
Accommodation: Generator Barcelona (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Generator Barcelona (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Cobbled lanes of the Gothic Quarter, Montjuic hilltop vistas, & wild Spanish architecture will season our day to perfection. There's plenty of free time to roam free or take a dip in the Mediterranean sea, just don't tire yourself out - chances are you'll want to partake in the evening of Flamenco fun.
Day 8: Barcelona To French Riviera Via Arles
Location: Barcelona, Arles, French Riviera
Accommodation: Villa Saint Exupery Beach (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Villa Saint Exupery Beach (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
As smitten as we are by Barcelona, we have more of Europe to conquer. Much, much more... After a dreamy drive across the border into France through landscapes of lavender, sunflowers and wild herbs, we'll arrive at our lunch break town of Arles. Here we will get a peek at an ancient Roman Arena and at a typical provincial French town. You're not a real celebrity until you've frolicked on the French Riviera, and who are we to keep you off the A-List? Sapphire waters & endless glamour as we roll through this glitzy coastline.
Day 9: French Riviera
Location: French Riviera, Monaco City, French Riviera
Accommodation: Villa Saint Exupery Beach (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Villa Saint Exupery Beach (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning we'll take in the crystal blue waters of the Riviera, cobble stone streets and charming markets! Later we take a scenic drive along the Côte d'Azur shows us everything we want to know about the French Riviera, as we make our way to the heart of it all, Monaco. It wouldn't be a true visit to Monaco without seeing the Royal Palace and the Monte Carlo casino, and that's exactly what we'll look for first. Then, what better place to spend your last night in France? You have a free evening to don your glad rags, spritz on some of your new perfume & rub shoulders with the high rollers, before it's back along the coast tonight. Monaco, you've been a real winner today. Winding our way back along the Côte d'Azur, we'll say goodbye to the flash pack and set our sights for bed.
Day 10: French Riviera To Florence Via Pisa
Location: French Riviera, Pisa, Florence
Accommodation: The Yellow (or similar)
Accommodation Name: The Yellow (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
After almost a week in France you'll be full to the brim with all things French and ready for new ground. Italy, perhaps? No trip around Europe is complete without seeing the world's most famous #AwkwardLean, the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Once you've got that perfect snap of you holding the thing up like you're Arnold Schwarzenegger, we'll be on the fast-track to Florence. Dancing and dinner in Tuscany. Is that the Duomo Cathedral we see, looming large over the pretty city? Now you know you’re in Florence. Tonight we’ll start our Italian adventure with an optional Tuscan feast (yum), then afterwards we’re off for a night out with dancing aplenty.
Day 11: Florence To Rome
Location: Florence, Rome
Accommodation: The Yellow (or similar)
Accommodation Name: The Yellow (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today will be split nicely between two of Italy's best cities, with Rome on our afternoon to-do list. First up is frolicking around Florence this morning, with our local guide taking us behind the scenes & revealing the city's cultural beginnings followed by a leather craft demonstration, part of Florence's artisan history. After a journey of romantic views past cypress trees and olive groves, we'll arrive in the Eternal City of Rome. Wasting no time uncovering the city, we'll take a tour of some of the biggest Italian icons, with famous sights and photo stops include the Trevi Fountain and the Spanish Steps. Whatever you do, don’t miss out on those other timeless classics – pizza, pasta and Italian gelato.
Day 12: Rome
Location: Rome
Accommodation: The Yellow (or similar)
Accommodation Name: The Yellow (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
You could explore one of the world's greatest icons this morning, and walk in the footsteps of gladiators, it's hard to believe these sights still exist, and when in Rome of course! If an unveiling of the Colosseum isn't your jam, make the day your own and do all the quintessential Italian things, like sipping endless espressos while the world rides by on Vespa. We recommend heading to the Trastevere for the ultimate people watching, over a steaming bowl of carbonara in its true home, flanked by a caprese salad of fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella and basil.
Day 13: Rome To Venice
Location: Rome, Venice
Accommodation: Anda Venice Hostel (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Anda Venice Hostel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
We may be hitting the road again, but we're not done with Italy just yet. We have one more city to lust over... Kudos to the cats of decades gone who constructed this lagoon fairytale. Boats, bridges, gondolas; your heart is going to pound. Start off this evening with an optional walking tour that not only shows you the sights but also finishes with traditional Venetian cicchetti, washed down with an aperitivo.
Day 14: Venice
Location: Venice
Accommodation: Anda Venice Hostel (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Anda Venice Hostel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Wake-up sleeping beauties! Venice is yours for the entirety of this glorious Italian day. We'll be jumping aboard our own private boat and hitting the canals en route to the historical heart of the city. You have the chance to become truly Venetian with a gondola ride up for grabs, or you can always choose to get lost on your own and see where the maze takes you.
Day 15: Venice To Austrian Tyrol
Location: Venice, Hopfgarten im Brixental
Accommodation: Contiki Haus Schoneck (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Contiki Haus Schoneck (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Arrivederci, Venice! You've been splendid. We're back on the road through the Dolomite Mountains en route to find lands fit for the Sound of Music. Onwards, upwards & seeing the world with more grateful eyes than ever before, we'll settle back on the road and soon arrive in the breathtaking Austrian Tyrol. We'll be welcomed with open arms to Contiki's very own Austrian Gasthof (guesthouse), but before we settle in, we'll get outside and explore the dreamy setting we'll call home for the next two nights. Tonight is a welcome evening & tomorrow we'll get into the swing of things with some of the adventure activities this town is famous for.
Day 16: Austrian Tyrol
Location: Hopfgarten im Brixental
Accommodation: Contiki Haus Schoneck (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Contiki Haus Schoneck (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Wake up, peel open your curtains, and take in the magnificence of your view. If you're feeling lively you can jump onto a bike tour through green mountains and waterfalls. If you're feeling really lively you can go tandem paragliding. Not so lively? Stroll around and take in the incredible setting; drink endless hot chocolate, go up a mountain in a gondola or relax at our Gasthof.
Day 17: Austrian Tyrol To Munich
Location: Hopfgarten im Brixental, Dachau, Munich
Accommodation: Bento Inn Munich Messe (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Bento Inn Munich Messe (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Farewell life in the blissful Austrian Alps, but don't give up on your Sound of Music image just yet. We'll leave Austria this morning in search of lands that prove the setting still exists. Farewell life in the blissful Austrian Alps, but don't give up on your Sound of Music image just yet. We'll leave Austria this morning in search of lands that prove the setting still exists. Bavarian culture, a famous Glockenspiel and charm aplenty. Munich doesn't just turn it on during Oktoberfest! Explore peaceful gardens and legendary beer halls or join in the bike tour and explore the side streets you wouldn't usually see, starting out with a city tour and a visit to a beer hall.
Day 18: Munich To Prague
Location: Munich, Prague
Accommodation: Plus Prague (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Plus Prague (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
We'll say farewell to Munich and continue our journey to Prague. The capital of the Czech Republic is fast becoming one of the hottest spots on the European map, and today you find out why... We start with a walking tour of the ancient streets, starting in the Castle District and passing by St Vitus Cathedral. Later this evening we'll head into the Old Town to see the famous Charles Bridge and astronomical clock. Tonight join us for an authentic Czech evening complete with dumplings, goulash, and plenty of local beer.
Day 19: Prague
Location: Prague
Accommodation: Plus Prague (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Plus Prague (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Wake up and explore a UNESCO World Heritage city that's begging you to come out to play. Roam pretty lanes and romantic courtyards, admiring the colourful baroque buildings and Gothic churches. You can take a walking food tour if you get a little hungry!
Day 20: Prague To Berlin
Location: Prague, Dresden, Berlin
Accommodation: Generator Alexanderplatz (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Generator Alexanderplatz (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Pack your bags and say your sincere thanks to the Czech Republic for being such a lovely host. As promised, we're heading back to Germany for a bout in Berlin. A drive from Prague to Berlin would not be complete without stopping in Dresden. Destroyed by World War II, the rebuilt town is now a symbol of resilience, soaked in the rebirthed beauty of an Opera house, the domed Frauenkirche, & the Royal Residence. On the world map of party vibes, Berlin has a gold star. We've got two nights to explore every inch of this iconic city and we'll kick it off with a tour to learn about its troubled but fascinating past. Once we've gotten acquainted with the key sites, we’ll enjoy an included dinner together, ready for more exploring tomorrow.
Day 21: Berlin
Location: Berlin
Accommodation: Generator Alexanderplatz (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Generator Alexanderplatz (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Leap out of bed knowing Berlin is ready and waiting to be explored. You can opt to discover Berlin's restless past on a historical walking tour including Checkpoint Charlie and the site of Hitler's bunker. Or choose an alternative walking tour to see the street art and counter-culture that tourists often miss. The nightlife is also yours for the taking, so this is your chance to scope out some of the underground raves or cocktail-lounge-in-the-basement scenarios that make this city a world famous party spot.
Day 22: Berlin To Amsterdam
Location: Berlin, Amsterdam
Accommodation: Via Hostel Amsterdam (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Via Hostel Amsterdam (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
We’ll journey out of Germany today and travel through the gloriously flat Netherlands with Amsterdam in our sights. You can start your exploration of this city with an included dinner followed by an optional trip up the A’DAM tower where (if you’re brave enough to keep your eyes open) you’ll be treated to unparalleled views aboard ‘Over the Edge’, Europe’s highest swing. Later, the fun doesn't stop, knowing there’s plenty of nightlife to keep you going until the early hours.
Day 23: Amsterdam
Location: Amsterdam
Accommodation: Via Hostel Amsterdam (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Via Hostel Amsterdam (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Opportunities in Amsterdam are infinite & the day is yours to explore one of the world’s most unique cities. The final night on trip together culminates with a chance to join a farewell dinner at the beautiful fishing village of Volendam & an opportunity to cruise the famous canals and revel under the city lights.
Day 24: End Amsterdam
Location: Amsterdam, Calais, Dover, London
Meals Included: Breakfast
Get your tissues ready, it's time to say goodbye to your new Contiki family. We'll escort you to Schiphol Airport by about 10am. For those not leaving us until London, we'll travel south to Calais. This afternoon we cross from France to England... ...and then back to London-town, where you'll be left to start dreaming up your next big adventure.
What's Included
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Meals
The tour includes 9 dinners and 23 breakfasts.
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Accommodation
Accommodation is provided in various hostels and hotels throughout the tour.
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Transportation
Transportation between destinations is included in the tour package.
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Guided Tours
Guided tours are included in various cities such as Paris, Rome, and Berlin.
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Included Experiences
Experiences such as visiting the White Cliffs of Dover, a tour of Paris landmarks, and a visit to the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona are included.
What's Not Included
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Optional Activities
Optional activities such as a Parisian cabaret show and a gondola ride in Venice are not included in the tour price.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.
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Flights
International and domestic flights to and from the starting and ending points of the tour are not included.
Dining Summary
- 9 Dinner (D)
- 23 Breakfast (B)
FAQs
- London: Travelling to (and through) the UK & Northern Ireland? You’ll need Essential Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)From January 8, 2025, UK law means that if you’re entering/transiting through the United Kingdom (UK) and Northern Ireland you’ll need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before you travel. Confused? Don’t be – just read on here.
- London: What currency do I need? For this trip, we recommend that you carry the British Pound, Euro, Czech Koruna, Swiss Franc. (It’s a coin collector's dream!)
- London: Can I share a room with my partner on this trip? Your Trip Manager will advise you on who you’ll share your room with. On this trip, you’ll stay in a multi-share room with other travellers of the same sex.
Included Experience
- Dover: See the iconic chalk-white coastline. So special that it’s had songs dedicated to it.
- Paris: Take a dreamy jaunt around the city of romance. Fall in love with landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Louvre, Champs-Élysées and Notre-Dame Cathedral.
- Beaujolais: Be a VIP at the epic Contiki Château and fill up on a banquet of classic French dishes and wines. Ooh la la!
- Barcelona: We’ll check out the Sagrada Familia, Gaudi’s world-renowned masterpiece. Work began on the church in the 1880s and while it was technically never finished, it’s still a wonder to behold.
- Barcelona: Combat boots at the ready, folks! Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter and Las Ramblas are so cool, you won’t know what to photograph first!
- Arles: Visit the historic city of Arles, famous for inspiring the paintings of Van Gogh.
- French Riviera: Glide through the winding coastal roads of the French Riviera with your Contiki crew.
- Monaco City: Walk in the footsteps of Grace Kelly at the Royal Palace and see the Monte Carlo Casino (where the car park looks like a Fast & Furious set).
- Pisa: Your ultimate chance to ‘hold the tower up’ as you pose for that classic Insta snap.
- Rome: Stroll around the Italian capital, ticking off some sights on your bucket list!
- Venice: Speed across the lagoon to the aqueous island of Venice.
- Venice: Life’s all about the waterways here; there’s not an Uber in sight! Get some classic pics of the famous gondola boats.
- Munich: We'll make a stop at a traditional Bavarian ‘Bier Halle’. Grab your Contiki crew and a beer. Prost!
- Prague: Walk through the winding cobbled streets and head up into the fairytale-like Castle District for panoramic city views.
- Berlin: Get your culture on. It’s time to see Tiergarten, Alexanderplatz, the Russian War Memorial, Brandenburg Gate and the historic Reichstag building.
- Berlin: Heads up culture vultures. Here’s your chance to check out the longest open-air gallery in the world.
Check out our Q&As
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What types of accommodation will we stay in during the tour?
During the tour, you will stay in a variety of accommodations including conveniently located hostels, a 16th-century château, and a traditional Austrian Gasthof. Each location offers its own unique charm, from the heart of Paris to the scenic Swiss Alps and the vibrant city of Barcelona.
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Are meals included in the tour package?
Yes, the tour includes 9 dinners and 23 breakfasts. These meals are part of the tour package and will be provided at various points throughout the journey.
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What kind of transportation is used during the tour?
The tour involves traveling across Europe by coach, ferry, and private boat. This allows you to experience the diverse landscapes from the White Cliffs of Dover to the picturesque Pyrenees, with scenic drives through the French Riviera and the Dolomite Mountains.
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Are there any optional activities available during the tour?
Yes, there are optional activities available such as a Parisian cabaret show and a gondola ride in Venice. These activities are not included in the tour price and can be chosen at your discretion.
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Is travel insurance included in the tour package?
No, travel insurance is not included in the tour package. It is recommended that you purchase travel insurance separately to cover any unforeseen circumstances during your trip.
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What is the final destination of the tour?
The tour concludes in Amsterdam, where you will be escorted to Schiphol Airport by about 10am on the last day. For those continuing to London, the tour will travel south to Calais and then back to London.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
In 1961, a guy called John Anderson founded Contiki in New Zealand. Whilst later bought by The Travel Corporation, the tour company had already been using the name ‘Contiki’ since its inception.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
Contiki trips are designed & operated exclusively for those aged 18-35 years. Your travelling companions will be like-minded adventurers within that age range. The age range is adhered to strictly.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® is our commitment to protect people, wildlife and the incredible planet we all share. Powered by The TreadRight Foundation, a non-profit organisation and Contiki’s guiding hand when it comes to making travel matter.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
All documentation will be sent via email around 21 days prior to your trip departure. You can also access information on your trip by signing up to My Contiki via the top right icon of the homepage.
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Book with Confidence
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Contiki allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform contiki, 60 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Contiki requires a minimum deposit of 200 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of contiki charges.
Up to 61 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 25% of booking price.
At 21 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
European Escapade | Standard | Start London | Summer 2025
24 Days Starting and ending in London
Visiting: London, Dover, Calais, Paris, Swiss Alps, Geneva, Beaujolais Wine Region, Barcelona, Arles, French Riviera, Monaco City, Pisa, Florence, Rome, Venice, Hopfgarten im Brixental, Dachau, Munich, Prague, Dresden, Berlin, Amsterdam ...more ...less
Tour operator:
Tour code:
CCBEP20
Specialist Group:
18-30 Somethings
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Age range:
18-35
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians